An Introduction to Metaphysics by Henri Bergson, T. E. (Translator) Hulme, T. E. Hulme (Translator)

From the Publisher

John Perry-author of the acclaimed Dialogue on Personal Identity and Immortality (Hackett, 1978)-revisits Gretchen Weirob in this lively and absorbing dialogue on good, evil, and the existence of God. In the early part of the work, Gretchen and her friends consider whether evil provides a problem for those who believe in the perfection of God. As the discussion continues they consider the nature of human evil-whether, for example, fully rational actions can be intentionally evil. Recurring themes are the distinction between natural evil and evil done by free agents, and the problems the Holocaust and other cases of genocide pose for conceptions of the universe as a basically good place, or humans as basically good beings. Once again, Perry's ability to get at the heart of matters combines with his exemplary skill at writing the dialogue form. An ideal volume for introducing students to the subtleties and intricacies of philosophical discussion.

Peter A.Y. Gunter

With its signal distinction between 'intuition' and 'analysis' and its exploration of the different levels of Duration (Bergson's term for Heraclitean flux), An Introduction to Metaphysics has had a significant impact on subsequent twentieth century thought. The arts, from post-impressionist painting to the stream of consciousness novel, and philosophies as diverse as pragmatism, process philosophy, and existentialism bear its imprint. Consigned for a while to the margins of philosophy, Bergson's thought is making its way back to the mainstream. The reissue of this important work comes at an opportune time, and will be welcomed by teachers and scholars alike. -University of North Texas

Booknews

Reprints the 1949 publication of the 1912 translation of the essay la m<'e>taphysique/>, which appeared in a French journal in January 1903. While not an epitome of Bergson's (1859-1941) work in general, it provides a good introduction to it, and sets out his meaning of intuition at greater length than elsewhere. There is no index or bibliography. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

What People Are Saying

Peter A.Y. Gunter
With its signal distinction between 'intuition' and 'analysis' and its exploration of the different levels of Duration (Bergson's term for Heraclitean flux), An Introduction to Metaphysics [Hackett Publishing Co.] has had a significant impact on subsequent twentieth century thought. The arts, from post-impressionist painting to the stream of consciousness novel, and philosophies as diverse as pragmatism, process philosophy, and existentialism bear its imprint. Consigned for a while to the margins of philosophy, Bergson's thought is making its way back to the mainstream. The reissue of this important work comes at an opportune time, and will be welcomed by teachers and scholars alike.

Product Details

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Table of Contents